A recent study highlights the potential benefits of dark chocolate in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes. Research published in The BMJ analyzed data from three large health cohorts and revealed that people who consumed five or more servings of dark chocolate per week had a 21% lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
The study differentiated between dark and milk chocolate, finding that only dark chocolate provided this protective effect. On the other hand, milk chocolate consumption showed no benefit and was associated with weight gain. People who favored milk chocolate were also more likely to eat other unhealthy foods, such as processed meats and sugary items.
The data was drawn from three major studies: the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses’ Health Study II, and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Researchers excluded participants with pre-existing diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Although dark chocolate’s flavonoid-rich content seemed to offer a metabolic boost, experts caution that chocolate consumption should be moderate. Too much can lead to weight gain, potentially offsetting any health benefits.
While promising, this study underscores the importance of balanced dietary choices for diabetes prevention. More research is needed to better understand the link between dark chocolate and diabetes risk. Nonetheless, incorporating small amounts of dark chocolate into a healthy diet may be a sweet way to reduce the chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
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